Wondering how to nail a good first impression? My interview in Glam details the key factors you’ll need to know in order to win the moment (and how to recover if you don’t).
To break it down, Glam trawled through research and reached out to a professional. They spoke exclusively to New York City-based relationship expert and bestselling author Susan Winter, who provides intuitive, thought-based dating advice, and Winter was quick to acknowledge the significance of any inaugural meeting. “First impressions are immensely important, especially because so many people are dating online. You have only a few seconds to capture someone’s attention,” the expert warned us.
In other words, you need to come into every new relationship — romantic, professional, or otherwise — with your A-game ready. But what does that really look like? Between Winter’s guidance and studies from the scientific community, we’ve identified some key moves that will help you nail a good first impression in any setting.
Inject your attitude with warmth and positivity
Some people suggest playing hard to get, but when meeting new people, this is less effective than a welcoming personality. As Susan Winter exclusively explains to Glam, “Having a positive disposition signals … that you’ll be friendly, enjoyable, and an asset. In both work and romance, no one wants to be saddled with a negative person.”
“Humans are attuned to the feeling they get upon meeting someone new,” Winter adds. “Are they comfortable or uncomfortable? And given the opportunity to make another selection, a negative disposition will be the first to be eliminated.”
Scientifically speaking, Winter’s advice is right on the money. A study published in Psychological Science last year measured the impact of two behavior patterns on likability: “friendly” and “benevolent” communal behaviors versus “dominant” and “confident” agentic behaviors. When trying to connect with a specific person, the researchers found that a warm, communal manner won hands-down. It’s worth noting that a dash of confidence helped research subjects’ overall popularity, but in the realm of one-on-one first impressions, it was less important — and even counterproductive. Friendliness, therefore, seems like a much more reliable option. As Winter sums it up, “Projecting a warm and affable personality is always a winning combination.”
Use open, welcoming body language
“Given the opportunity to smile, do so,” Winter exclusively advises Glam. “Humans feel more aligned with someone who has an agreeable and friendly personality. A warm smile is the clearest indication of this at first glance. As long as your smile isn’t forced, fake, or uncomfortable, it will make a great first impression.”
Display shared values, goals, and interests
“Can a bad impression be mended further down the road? That depends upon the other qualities that one possesses,” Susan Winter exclusively tells Glam. “If you share a great passion or interest with the person you’re meeting, an awkward conversation can evolve into a productive flow.” In short, while first impressions are critical, we must never forget that people have the ability to change their minds — if you give them enough good reason to. As Winter reminds us, “If you possess other qualities that are of high value to your date, oftentimes they can override their discomfort with a bad first impression and give you another chance.”
To get the full list of suggestions to drive home a great first impression, read the full article on Glam, “How To Nail A Good First Impression, According To Science.”
